Digital inclusion support
Getting you online, one step at a time.
At One Manchester, we know the rising cost of living has made it harder for some customers to stay connected.
We believe everyone deserves the chance to build the digital skills that make everyday life easier and open up new opportunities – whether it’s staying connected to vital health services, saving money on everyday bills, accessing learning and employment, or managing your One Manchester account online.
People who aren’t able to use digital technology can find it more difficult to access health services, face higher costs for everyday essentials, and are over five times more likely to be out of work. Digital inclusion is about changing that — making sure everyone has the access, skills, support and confidence they need to thrive, whatever their circumstances.
Together, we can make sure no one is left behind.
Digital skills for everyone
In July 2025, after hearing from customers that many were struggling to get online due to the cost of devices, lack of connectivity and limited digital skills, we set up a new digital support offer to help remove these barriers.
What support is available?
We offer step‑by‑step support to help you feel confident online at our Digital Connect drop‑in sessions. If covering the cost of getting online is difficult, you can borrow devices or get free data SIM cards through our Digital Lending Library.
Digital Connect drop-in sessions
Our Digital Connect drop-in sessions are held every Thursday at Gorton Hub from 10am-12pm. The friendly team are on hand at every session to help you learn new digital skills. You can either bring along your own device or use one of the laptops available, helping to build your skills and confidence.
The sessions are delivered in partnership with Starting Point Community Learning Partnership, a local social enterprise that’s helping people across Greater Manchester get to grips with the digital world, no matter their age or experience.
Digital Lending Library
Stay connected and keep learning with a laptop loan from One Manchester.
Our Digital Lending Library is about giving our customers who are unable to afford a digital device the chance to borrow a laptop for up to three months, along with free data SIM cards and gifted mobile phones when available.
This service is offered through referrals from teams such as Neighbourhoods, Financial Inclusion, Employment and Skills, and other specialist support services, including our care leaver and domestic abuse teams.
If you’re struggling to get online and would benefit from our Lending Library, please chat to your Neighbourhood Officer, who can make a referral on your behalf.
You can also give us a call on 0330 355 1000, speak to your Neighbourhood Officer, or fill in our Contact Us form and we’ll get back to you.
Need help developing your skills or finding a job?
Whether you're starting your career, unemployed, looking for a career change, or returning to work after a break, our Employment and Skills team can help. We work with individuals aged 16 and over at all stages of their career journeys, offering personalised, one-on-one support to help you find suitable employment.